The EtherPath is a versatile single port serial server for Ethernet
LAN/WAN's. It allows a "remote" serial port for any LAN connected
workstation via telnet or port-redirector software. The EtherPath
also connects any two async serial devices through a LAN, even via routers,
when used in client-server or EtherModem mode. The
EtherPath is often used with serial devices such as remote data
collection terminals, DCB multiplexers and Access Switches, SCADA, building
automation equipment, UPS's, bar code scanners, or climate control devices.
It is used to connect serial management ports directly to an Ethernet network
for "in-band" control of "out-of-band" devices. For this application, simply
telnet to the serial management port of the connected device or use
inexpensive (or free) port redirector software.

The EtherPath uses the TCP/IP
protocol, allowing data connection across routed or switched LAN/WAN networks
as well as connections on a local network.

The EtherPath supports serial
interface speeds up to 230 Kbps. The EtherPath can automatically open
connections when it powers up (Nailed-Up mode), eliminating the need for a
manual request. Full flow controls (RTS/CTS) and Xon/Xoff are also
supported.

The EtherModem mode allows a
serial device to treat the EtherPath as if it was a true "Ethernet
Modem", using normal modem control and response strings such as "ATD", "ATE",
+++, etc. This allows a single EtherPath to connect to multiple
remote servers (either EtherPaths or telnet servers) under control of
the attached serial device.

If in point to point client server mode
and the "nailed" connection is lost, the EtherPath automatically
reconnects when a path again becomes available.

The EtherPath can be managed
directly through its physical port as well as remotely from other network
locations. Remote configuration is supported using TCP/IP (telnet) or with
the easy web browser interface. Security lists are provided for management
security.

Telnet to the EtherPath or use COM:
port redirector software on UNIX (SCO, FreeBSD, AIX, LINUX) or Windows
machines, making the EtherPath a remote serial port for a PC or a work
station. The EtherPath is an ideal remote access device for
maintaining and controlling remote devices with RS-232 serial control ports.
When used with the DCB Access Switch, the single serial port can be expanded
to 152 ports including remote AC power control.

If you want to use the EtherPath as a
remote COM: port on a Windows PC, DCB recommends Serial/IP port redirector
for Windows machines. It's produced by Tactical Software and a 30 day demo
can be downloaded from this
link. After you've tried it, you can purchase the permanent license
authorization from us.

OEM manufacturers can design the
EtherPath into their products or use it as an add-on method to gain
ethernet connectivity. DCB supplies the EtherPath to many other
companies and can provide custom firmware for specific applications.

If you need UDP
communications to a similar device, or wish to use a similar device in a multi-drop or
polled environment (quite handy for SCADA protocols such as Modbus, DNP3,
etc. ), then check out the EtherPath's brother, the EtherPoll.. It is similar hardware
with firmware that uses UDP communications to multiple remote devices... a
great ethernet replacement for multi-drop modems.

Step-by-step instructions on configuring two Etherpath units to communicate and transfer serial data through the LAN using a "nailed-up connection" on the work bench. We urge all new users to first set up a pair this way so you know what to expect in the field.Download the note.

How to diagnose the problem if you have trouble making the units work after configuring them according to the quick start guide above. Very few people need this note, but here are the hints just in case. .Download the note.

Step-by-step instructions on configuring an Etherpath unit to communicate and transfer serial data through the LAN functioning as a telnet server on the work bench. We urge all new telnet server application users to first set up a pair this way so you know what to expect in the field.Download the note.

How to diagnose the problem if you have trouble making the units work after configuring them according to the quick start guide above. Very few people need this note, but here are the hints just in case. .Download the note.

"Using the EtherPath with Unix and PC Port Redirection" is an article
that discusses the options available when using port redirection software
and custom-written software to access remote serial ports with the
EtherPath serial device server. Sources of sample programs and free port
redirector software are provided. Read the article!

"Globally Serial: Extending the Reach of your Serial Devices Around the
World" is an article that recently appeared in information technology trade
journals. This article discusses the use of DCB's EtherPath external
device servers and how they are used to connect RS-232 serial devices using
a wide area ethernet network. Read the
article!

The EtherPath shines at point-to-point applications using TCP/IP. The EtherPoll is used for both point-to-point and point-to-multipoint applications with UDP/IP. This applications note helps you select the one that best fits your needs. Read the
article!.